Philippine Vice-President Duterte’s impeachment trial to start in July, says Senate chief
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Philippine Vice-President Sara Duterte is accused of plotting to assassinate President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
PHOTO: BLOOMBERG
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MANILA – Philippine Vice-President Sara Duterte’s impeachment trial will start when a new Congress convenes in July, Senate president Francis Escudero said, ruling out the chances of a special session while lawmakers are on election break.
Ms Duterte was impeached
The vice-president, daughter of former president Rodrigo Duterte, has denied the accusations.
The Senate, which will sit as an impeachment court, adjourned on the same day without tackling the impeachment complaint.
“Sona is on July 21, so trial will commence after that date,” Mr Escudero said in a televised briefing, referring to Mr Marcos’ annual state of the nation address before the lawmakers.
Ms Duterte, who has publicly feuded with Mr Marcos, faces removal from office and disqualification to hold a public post if at least two-thirds of senators vote to convict her, according to the Constitution.
Her impeachment is the latest episode in the deepening fallout between Mr Marcos and Ms Duterte, who teamed up to win the 2022 election.
The Senate is expected to resume session on June 2, after the midterm elections in May when half of the upper chamber’s 24 seats will be contested.
A lot of things need to be done before the impeachment trial, Mr Escudero said.
“A court is convened once it is ready to receive evidence,” he said, adding he does not intend to request Marcos to call for a special session during the recess. BLOOMBERG
